Ever miss the simple joys of your favorite 90s hobbies, only to find they’ve become too pricey to enjoy? Now, rising costs have turned them into pursuits for the elite. It’s disheartening to see hobbies that once brought so much fun and connection drift out of reach. We’ll uncover popular 90s hobbies that have seen shocking price hikes and explore what’s behind the shift.
1. Pinball Machine Restoration
Restoring pinball machines has become a costly endeavor, with expenses varying based on the machine’s condition and the extent of restoration required. Sourcing original parts, such as playfield components and electronic boards, can be expensive, with some parts costing several hundred dollars. For instance, a new MPU board may cost around $200, while a lamp driver board can be approximately $75. This makes restoration both a labor of love and a significant financial investment.
2. Arcade Game Cabinet Collecting
Collecting arcade game cabinets has transformed from an affordable hobby into a pursuit requiring substantial investment. In the past, enthusiasts could acquire classic machines for a few hundred dollars. However, the growing nostalgia and rarity of these cabinets have driven prices up significantly. For example, classic cabinets from the ’80s and ’90s now typically range from $500 to $3,000, with iconic titles commanding even higher prices. Rare titles can fetch a premium of $5,000 to $10,000, reflecting their historical significance and collector appeal.
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3. BMX Bike Customization
BMX bike customization has evolved into a costly endeavor. Specialized parts and custom frames, once reasonably priced, now command premium prices. A study by Market Research Future projects the BMX bike market to reach $381.8 million by 2030, indicating a growing interest in BMX activities. The growing demand for custom BMX bikes has contributed to the increased costs of specialized parts and custom frames. Increasingly, riders are seeking customized and high-performance components, which are often available at higher price points.
4. Amateur Astronomy
Amateur astronomers encounter rising expenses in their quest to explore the cosmos. Technological advancements have led to more sophisticated telescopes, often accompanied by higher price tags. High-quality instruments, essential for clear and detailed observations, can be quite costly. For instance, a good home telescope can range from $70 to $20,000, with specialized models reaching up to $700,000. This financial barrier may deter budding Despite more affordable entry-level options, some astronomers avoid the hobby.
5. Remote Control Car Racing
Remote control (RC) car racing has evolved into a hobby that demands significant financial investment. Enthusiasts often spend around $1,000 on initial setups, including high-performance vehicles and essential accessories. Annual maintenance costs can add an additional $300, covering repairs and necessary upgrades. Competitive racing requires top-tier components, such as advanced telemetry systems and high-capacity batteries, which further increase expenses.
6. Comic Book Creation
Creating a comic book involves significant expenses, particularly in art supplies and self-publishing. Traditional artists require tools like drawing boards, pencils, inks, and high-quality paper. Setting up a professional studio can cost between $150 to $200, with high-end equipment reaching thousands. A study by Nick Macari highlights that producing a comic book can range from a low-budget of $1,000 to a blockbuster budget of $60,000 per issue, depending on the quality and experience of the creative team involved.
7. VHS Movie Collections
Collecting VHS movies has evolved into a costly hobby, with rare tapes and functional players commanding high prices. Limited releases and cult classics, such as the original release of “The Little Mermaid,” can fetch hundreds of dollars. A sealed copy of “Star Wars” (1983) sold for $32,500. The scarcity of working VHS players, no longer in production since 2016, has further increased their value. High-end VCRs with superior playback quality can be worth between $300 to $500.
8. Action Figure Customizing
Action figure customizing has become increasingly expensive over time. Materials such as sculpting putty, paints, and specialty tools contribute to the rising costs. Original figures, especially rare or vintage models used as bases for customization, have also seen significant price increases. For instance, a mint condition Optimus Prime action figure, a vintage toy, can fetch between $500 and $1,200. These factors make action figures customizing a substantial investment for enthusiasts.
9. CB Radio Enthusiast Groups
CB radio enthusiasts have noticed a significant rise in equipment and licensing costs. In the United States, while CB radios themselves don’t require individual licenses, related services like the General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) have seen fee adjustments. For instance, the FCC reduced the GMRS license fee from $70 to $35 in 2021. Additionally, the FCC introduced a $35 fee for amateur radio licenses, which were previously free. These changes impact hobbyists who often engage in multiple radio services.
10. Rock Tumbling/Lapidary
Engaging in rock tumbling and lapidary work has become increasingly expensive. The prices of essential equipment, such as tumblers, saws, and polishing tools, have risen notably. For instance, rotary tumblers can range from $50 for basic models to over $500 for advanced machines. Vibratory tumblers, known for their efficiency, often start around $100 and can exceed $600, depending on capacity and features. Additionally, the cost of raw materials, including rough stones and minerals, has escalated.
11. Scale Model Railroading
Engaging in scale model railroading has become increasingly expensive. Detailed components, such as locomotives, rolling stock, and scenery elements, now command premium prices. For instance, high-quality HO scale locomotives can range from $200 to $600, depending on the model and features. Additionally, intricate building kits and accessories add to the overall cost, making this hobby a significant investment for enthusiasts. The number of consumers purchasing these products is also relatively small, resulting in higher prices.
12. Cassette DJ-ing
Cassette DJ-ing has experienced a notable resurgence, sparking increased demand for vintage equipment and rare tapes. High-end cassette decks, such as the Nakamichi Dragon, have become highly sought after, with prices ranging from $2,500 to $5,000. This revival is driven by a growing appreciation for analog sound and nostalgia for physical media. Enthusiasts value the unique audio characteristics and tactile experience that cassettes provide, distinguishing them from digital formats.
13. Amateur Film Photography
Amateur film photography enthusiasts are encountering escalating costs in their pursuit of this classic art form. The price of film has risen notably; for instance, a single roll of 35mm film now ranges from $10 to $15. A 2021 analysis by Silvergrain Classics examined the factors contributing to rising film prices. The study highlighted that the fragmentation of Kodak into separate entities for manufacturing and selling film has led to increased costs. When Eastman Kodak raises prices, Kodak Alaris must pass these increases on to consumers.
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